American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

The lack of distribution of power in citizen participation can lead to reduced trust in government. When citizens feel that decision-making is concentrated in the hands of a few, or when their voices are not adequately heard or represented, it can create a sense of disenfranchisement. This sentiment often leads individuals to perceive the government as unresponsive or illegitimate, undermining their confidence in governmental institutions and processes. Consequently, when public participation is not genuinely inclusive, it can foster cynicism and disillusionment among citizens, diminishing their overall trust in government operations and decision-making.

In contrast, an increased distribution of power typically encourages broader community engagement, promotes transparency, and can enhance efficiency by incorporating diverse perspectives in decision-making processes.